Florida International University

What you'll study

The programme combines foundations in adult learning and educational leadership with specialised coursework focused on methods and levels (for example elementary, middle, secondary or subject-specific methods). Students study how to design, implement and assess professional development, how to use data to guide instructional change, and how to coach and mentor teachers in real school settings.

• Core topics: adult learning theory, curriculum development for professional learning, assessment of teacher practice, research methods for practitioner inquiry and leading professional learning communities.
• Specialist modules: level- and subject-specific pedagogy (elementary methods, secondary content methods, literacy, STEM methods, ESOL methods depending on pathway), differentiated professional learning strategies and culturally responsive instruction.
• Leadership and coaching: instructional coaching, classroom observation and feedback models, change management, using achievement and formative data to plan PD.
• Practicum and capstone: applied practicum in a school or district setting, culminating in a capstone project, professional portfolio or action research project that addresses a real professional development need.

The programme is usually delivered through a mix of seminar-style classes, online modules and school-based practicum. Students may follow a full-time or part-time pathway and can often select elective courses to support career goals such as curriculum leadership, teacher mentorship or district-level professional learning design.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree. Preferred applicants have a current teaching certificate or comparable professional experience in K–12 education. Typical application materials include academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining professional aims and how the programme matches them, a résumé or CV, and references from supervisors or academic referees.

Additional requirements commonly include a demonstration of professional practice readiness for practicum placements (such as a clear background check) and, for applicants whose first language is not English, an approved demonstration of English proficiency. The programme may require an interview or additional documentation for applicants without current classroom certification.

Career prospects

Graduates work across schools, districts and education organisations designing and leading teacher learning. Common roles include:

• Instructional coach or mentor supporting teachers’ classroom practice
• Professional development coordinator or director at a school or district level
• Curriculum specialist or instructional coach for subject-specific programmes (literacy, STEM, ESOL)
• School or district leader focusing on teacher development and school improvement
• Educational consultant, trainer for non-profit organisations or providers of professional learning
• Practitioner-researcher conducting classroom-focused action research or leading evaluation of PD initiatives

Why study at Florida International University

Florida International University’s College of Education and Human Development offers this programme with close ties to Miami‑Dade County and other regional school districts, providing extensive opportunities for school-based practicum and collaborative projects. Students benefit from faculty with PK–12 experience and from a diverse, multicultural learning environment that is particularly strong for preparing educators to work in multilingual and urban contexts.

FIU also provides flexible delivery options, including blended and online coursework, to accommodate working professionals. The university’s emphasis on applied research and community partnerships helps graduates move directly into leadership roles that influence teacher practice and student outcomes.